Exam Schedule and Groups
The Konkur is held biannually, first in early May and then in early July. The exam caters to five distinct test groups: “Mathematical and Technical Sciences,” “Experimental Sciences,” “Humanities” (including candidates using resources from either the field of humanities or Islamic sciences and education), “Foreign Languages,” and “Art.” Until 2013, the Islamic Azad University conducted its entrance exams separately, but these were later merged with the national entrance exam.
Legislative Changes and Future Directions
In response to criticisms and the evolving educational landscape, the Iranian Parliament has resolved to gradually phase out the Konkur, replacing it with alternative university admission criteria . As part of this transition, the Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution has mandated an increased emphasis on academic records in student admissions. By 2024, academic records are expected to account for up to 50% of the final admission criteria . These records include final and descriptive exam scores from secondary education (in the new 6-3-3 educational system) or diploma and pre-university scores (in the old educational system) .
Historical Context
The first Konkur in Iran was held in 1969, with 47,703 participants. Initially, the exam featured short answer questions. By 2014, the number of participants had surged to about 850,000, with 500,000 applicants registering for the Experimental Sciences group . The number of participants has fluctuated over the years, with a notable increase in 2018 when 1,118,793 candidates took the exam.